Trekking or hiking: the mistake almost everyone makes

The difference between trekking and hiking

Trekking means hiking over several days with overnight stays in the mountains or in the wilderness, while hiking is an activity completed within a single day.

So, while a trek is always a type of hiking holiday, it is one that moves from place to place. The reverse is not always true: a hiking holiday is not necessarily a trek!

The distinction between trekking and hiking can seem blurred. Yet these two forms of walking differ in their duration, technical demands and underlying philosophy. Understanding these differences helps you prepare better for your outings and choose an adventure that truly matches your expectations and ability. Whether you are planning a Sunday escape on the trails of the Vercors or a multi-day traverse through the Dolomites, this distinction is essential to making the most of your mountain experience without disappointment.

1. Hiking
2. Trekking: the call of the journey
3. Equipment and preparation: trekking vs. hiking
4. Physical and mental fitness required: hiking vs. trekking
5. Choosing between hiking and trekking based on your goals

Hiking: the art of a planned walk

Hiking is defined as a planned walk on generally waymarked trails, lasting anywhere from a few hours to a full day. It focuses on exploring accessible landscapes, often returning to the starting point or setting out from a fixed accommodation base.

Hikers mainly follow maintained paths, whether on the GR (Grande Randonnée) long-distance trail network or on local trails. The route may be a loop, an out-and-back walk or a short point-to-point walk. The starting point is generally reached by vehicle, which makes logistics easier.

This accessibility makes hiking an ideal activity for family outings. Children can gradually discover the mountains, while adults enjoy natural surroundings without major technical challenges.

In travel agency terminology, a single-centre holiday describes a stay where participants set out from the same accommodation each day for day hikes. This format combines the pleasures of exploration with the comfort of returning to a guesthouse or hotel each day. These holidays can be guided trips or self-guided trips.

Trekking: the call of a journey through the wilderness

Trekking takes a radically different approach. It involves walking from place to place over several days, often through wilderness or areas with few visitors, with nights spent bivouacking, in tents, in remote mountain huts or, on the most comfortable treks, in walkers' guesthouses or hotels.

This activity has its roots in the exploration of remote territories. Trekkers accept the need to carry all their equipment and adapt to the challenges of the terrain. They seek complete immersion in a natural environment, even if it means facing changing weather conditions and significant elevation changes.

Group treks offer a way to share this intense experience while benefiting from the expertise of a local guide. This approach is particularly well suited to exploring the Alps or faraway destinations.

Trekking typically takes place in high mountain areas, deserts or polar regions. These environments demand constant adaptation: wide temperature fluctuations, lower oxygen levels at altitude, and navigation on routes that are not always consistently waymarked. This encounter with the elements is at the very heart of the experience.

Equipment and preparation: trekking vs. hiking

Hiking equipment

A hiker’s equipment remains relatively light: a 20 to 35 litre backpack, low-cut walking shoes or ankle-supporting boots depending on the terrain, and clothing suited to the day’s weather. Water and food supplies can often be replenished along the way.

Trekking equipment

Trekkers need to carry enough to be self-sufficient for several days: a tent or sleeping system, a stove and fuel, food supplies, and technical clothing for all conditions. Backpacks commonly have a capacity of 60 to 80 litres and weigh 15 to 20 kg. This load changes the way you walk and requires specific physical preparation.

On our trekking holidays, we usually offer luggage transfers. This allows you to enjoy the pleasures of trekking without its drawbacks. For a clearer idea of what to bring and how to set off properly equipped, explore our guide to packing a trekking backpack.

Planning and preparation

A hike can be planned more spontaneously, depending on the weather or how you feel at the time. Trekking, however, requires careful planning: studying maps, gradually building fitness, and checking equipment. This preparation phase is an integral part of the experience.

Physical and mental fitness requirements: hiking vs. trekking

Hiking requirements

A good level of general fitness is enough for hiking. Spring outings allow you to gradually regain fitness after winter, while September hikes make the most of the peak fitness built up over the summer.

Preparing for trekking

Trekking requires specific cardiovascular and strength training. Training should replicate the actual conditions: walking with a load, tackling significant elevation changes, and sustaining effort over several hours. The psychological aspect is just as important: you need to be able to accept a degree of discomfort, cope with isolation, and stay motivated over time.

Choosing between hiking and trekking based on your goals

Hiking to explore

Hiking is an ideal way to discover a region, get started in the mountains or enjoy an activity together. Self-guided trips let you explore at your own pace while benefiting from an organised framework. This gradual approach naturally prepares you for more ambitious challenges.

Trekking to push your limits

Trekking is for experienced walkers seeking an immersive and challenging experience. It builds independence and physical and mental endurance. Guided treks provide a safe framework for this intense experience, particularly when you are first getting started.

A natural progression: from hiking to trekking

Many trekkers started with conventional hiking. This natural progression allows you to gradually develop the technical skills, physical fitness and mental readiness needed to tackle major routes.

Whether you choose a discovery hike or an adventure trek, the key is to find the right match for your goals, ability and expectations. Grand Angle supports you in this process by offering trips suited to every level, from your first steps in the mountains to major crossings across Europe. Contact our advisers to work out together which adventure suits you and discover the wonders awaiting us in the mountains and along the trails.

Continue reading with these blog articles:

• Europe’s most difficult multi-day hikes
• Taking on the TMB as a beginner